Filipino exporters from the seafood sector have secured USD514.8 million or about PHP31.68 billion in sales from booked and negotiated deals in Spain, the Department of Agriculture (DA) reported Wednesday.
The deals were secured at the 32nd Seafood Expo Global (SEG) held in Barcelona, where the Philippine delegates secured booked sales of USD450.6 million or about PHP27.73 billion, DA Undersecretary for Fisheries Drusila Esther Bayate said.
Negotiated agreements, meanwhile, reached USD64.17 million, equivalent to PHP3.95 billion.
DA Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said these figures show the country’s competitiveness in the seafood industry.
“SEG 2026 shows that, like the oceans themselves, there is a vast market for Philippine seafood if we improve standards and marketing,” he said.
Bayate, meanwhile, lauded the effort of Filipino exporters as the Philippine pavilion gained remarkable attraction from international buyers.
“These results reflect not just strong demand, but the dedication of our exporters and the importance of government support in navigating international regulations and positioning Philippine seafood competitively,” she said.
At least 12 Philippine exporters have participated in the SEG 2026, while buyers from more than 150 countries across the world visited the Philippine pavilion.
It showcased high-value products, including fresh and processed seafood, which highlighted the country’s sustainability practices and technological innovations.
SEG 2026 also featured advances in aquaculture, from artificial intelligence (AI)-assisted fish processing to sustainable aquafeeds.
With over 2,000 global exhibitors, the Philippines’ strong presence underscored the country’s competitiveness and growing reputation as a reliable seafood supplier.
Initial feedback from exhibitors indicated strong prospects for future participation.
Officials also underscored the need for continued government support in regulatory compliance, technical assistance, and logistics to fully support exporters for global opportunities. (PNA)
